Category Archives: Disney

Book Disney’s Ultimate Christmastime Package for December 17-22, 2018

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Still thinking about the perfect Christmas present for your family? Would you like to celebrate the season in the most magical way at the most magical place on Earth? Add in exclusive access to some attractions, holiday festivities, a special dining experience, and you can enjoy the ultimate Disney Christmastime package from December 17-22, 2018! Guests who purchase this exclusive package will enjoy a five-night stay at a select Disney Moderate, Disney Deluxe or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort hotel, 4-day theme park tickets with the Park Hopper® Option and some exclusive experiences at the Walt Disney World Resort during their stay.

Some of the special (and exclusive) festive experiences included in the Ultimate Disney Christmastime package are:

  • Exclusive Nighttime Access to Toy Story Land on Dec. 17 – You’ll get to spend time at Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios riding Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, and Toy Story Mania. The new land will also celebrate its’ first holiday season with special decor guests can’t miss.
  • Celebrate the Season with tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on Dec. 18 – Ring in the holiday season with admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park.
  • Exclusive Nighttime Access to Select Disney’s Animal Kingdom Attractions on Dec. 19 – Enjoy exclusive nighttime access to Avatar Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, Expedition Everest and Dinosaur plus an exclusive showing of Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
  • Exclusive Early Morning Access to shopping at World of Disney Store & Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail Experience on Dec. 20 – You can shop at the World of Disney store at Disney Springs, and take time to visit this year’s Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail, to enjoy hot chocolate and cotton candy. 
  • Enjoy an Exclusive Holiday Themed Buffet Dinner Event at Epcot on Dec. 21 – Enjoy a holiday-themed buffet dinner event in World Showplace Events Pavillion.

Since your theme park admission is already included with this package, you will be able to truly enjoy the holidays at Walt Disney World Resort. Some highlights include “A Frozen Holiday Wish” at Magic Kingdom Park, the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays at Epcot, Flurry of Fun festivities and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Diwali holiday additions to UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, and much more. Don’t forget to check out the Holiday Events & Celebrations site for full holiday vacation-planning details.

The Ultimate Disney Christmastime Package may be booked now through December 2, 2018, for travel occurring December 17-22, 2018. Pricing starts at $175 per person, per night, for a family of four in a garden view room at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort. That’s a total package price of $3,500. Availability is limited so book today!

Plus, if you book your Ultimate Disney Christmastime package with us, you can choose from a gift card or in-room gift to make your stay even more magical! You’ll also receive our Guide to Christmas at Disney World! Contact Siera today at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more details!

Adventures by Disney Offers Three New Short Escape Vacations for 2019

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Today, Adventures by Disney revealed the latest additions to our expanding line-up of Short Escape vacations: three brand-new adventures in Boston, London and Vancouver, Canada, launching next year!

Short Escapes are two- to four-night adventures in iconic destinations that can be booked as stand-alone getaways or as add-ons to other vacation plans. Just like all of our trips, these itineraries feature must-see attractions, hands-on activities and opportunities to discover hidden gems, and each one is filled with all the authentic experiences, VIP service, special access and signature Disney storytelling that set Adventures by Disney vacations apart.

Bookings for new Short Escapes open Sept. 20, 2018. Read on to discover all that’s in store on these exciting itineraries …

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Best of Boston – Past and Present
On the new four-day, three-night Short Escape itinerary in Boston, travelers will discover treasured American history and spirited contemporary culture.

Guests will be immersed in the city’s legendary stories during privately guided tours along the Freedom Trail and the Old North Church—where many famous moments of the American Revolution took place—and a special after-hours visit to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum that concludes with a private dinner steeped in the city’s storied roots. Other family-friendly excursions and activities include rowing along the Charles River, biking the city on a private adventure, exploring the grounds of Harvard Yard, and indulging in a delicious buffet of seafood, chicken, corn-on-the-cob and more at a private New England clambake on Thompson Island.

The new Boston Short Escape is available on select dates in May through October 2019.

In 2019, Adventures by Disney will offer a brand-new Short Escape itinerary in London, where adventurers will revel in the royal treatment with VIP experiences in one of the world’s most iconic cities. The itinerary includes a private viewing of the royal Crown Jewels at the Tower of London, a high-speed boat ride along the River Thames and a privately guided tour of Westminster Abbey, the revered site of royal coronations and weddings. (Mark Ashman, photographer)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Bucket List Getaway in London
Our guests will revel in the royal treatment with VIP experiences in one of the world’s most iconic cities during the new three-day, two-night Short Escape in London, which can be booked as a stand-alone vacation or as a pre-cruise add-on to Disney Cruise Line sailings out of nearby Dover, England.

The itinerary is filled with exceptional experiences, including a once-in-a-lifetime, private viewing of the royal Crown Jewels led by the Tower of London’s Jewel House Warden; a private, high-speed thrill ride in a rib boat along the River Thames; and a privately guided tour of Westminster Abbey, the revered site of royal coronations and weddings. Families will also witness the time-honored tradition of the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

The new London Short Escape is available on select dates in July, August and September 2019.

In 2019, Adventures by Disney will offer a brand-new Short Escape itinerary in Vancouver, Canada, where adventurers will discover unparalleled views of the city’s lush natural surroundings during exciting outdoor activities like ziplining and gondola rides at Grouse Mountain, a privately guided tour at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and a morning bike ride through Stanley Park. (Diana Zalucky, photographer)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

City Highlights and Outdoor Recreation in Vancouver
Active adventures and culinary delights await on the new three-day, two-night Short Escape itinerary in Vancouver, which can be booked as a stand-alone vacation or as the perfect complement to a Disney Cruise Line Alaska voyage.

Guests will discover unparalleled views of the city’s lush natural surroundings during exciting outdoor activities like ziplining and gondola rides at Grouse Mountain, a privately guided tour at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and a morning bike ride through Stanley Park. They’ll get a taste of the city’s thriving culinary scene during a “foodie” walking tour of Granville Island’s famous Public Market, and there’s even a special scavenger hunt expedition just for Junior Adventurers while adults unwind with beer and wine flights at a local tasting room.

The trip also features early morning access to Grouse Mountain’s resident grizzly bear habitat, where guests can observe bears up-close, learn from a local bear expert and enjoy a private breakfast with amazing views. Other highlights include photo-worthy encounters with lively lumberjacks, birds of prey and towering totem poles.

The new Vancouver Short Escape is available on select dates in May through September 2019.

Enjoy Fall Treats at Disney World in October and November

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Down in Orlando, the trees are still green and the summer heat is still lingering, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fall season at Walt Disney World Resort! Throughout October and November, you’ll be able to find your favorite autumn flavors throughout the resort with these fall treats at Disney World.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

At Magic Kingdom Park, you’ll LOVE all of the spooky sweets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, such as the Candy Corn Milkshake (available daily at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies). This shake is my FAVORITE treat right now. It’s made with candy corn ice cream and topped with cotton candy and the cutest Mickey-shaped marshmallow! If you want to know about all of the fun offerings for this event, I recently put out a foodie guide giving you all the spooky details.

Outside of Magic Kingdom Park, though, there are fall-inspired eats around every corner!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

Rosie’s All-American Café, ABC Commissary (all items available through Oct. 31)

  • Peanut Butter and Chocolate Coffin Cake
  • Chocolate and Orange Cream Parfait

Trolley Car Café (all items available through Oct. 31)

  • Chocolate and Caramel Apple
  • Chocolate Cake – topped with chocolate mousse and chocolate Mickey ears

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM

Isle of Java

  • Apple Cider Donut Holes

Creature Comforts, Pizzafari, Restaurantosaurus

  • Halloween Cupcake (available through Nov. 1) – yellow cupcake filled with pumpkin mousse and topped with cinnamon buttercream, an edible Mickey ghost, and a fondant pumpkin

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

EPCOT

Fountain View

  • Halloween Cupcake (available through Oct 31) – chocolate cupcake filled with chocolate mousse and topped with green and purple buttercream, a chocolate bat, and orange sprinkles

Le Cellier Steakhouse (all items available through Nov. 18)

  • Autumn Poulet Rouge Roulade – cornbread stuffing with cranberries, golden raisins, pecans, sweet potato espuma, rainbow chard, and pecan vinaigrette
  • Brown Butter-Basted George’s Bank Scallops – pumpkin risotto, Brussels sprouts, fig and pomegranate slaw, red wine syrup, and pumpkin seed brittle

Sunshine Seasons

  • Pumpkin Bundt Cake (available through Dec. 25)
  • Monster’s Inc. Cupcake (available on Oct. 31 only) – chocolate cupcake with salted pretzel mousse filling and topped with buttercream and a chocolate cake ball decorated with fondant

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT HOTELS

Visiting one of our Walt Disney World Resort Hotels? You can find some tasty treats at nearly all of our resorts! From pumpkin and candy corn cupcakes to Mickey Pumpkin Spice Beignets, there’s a whole hay-ride full of snacks that you won’t want to miss out on.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Gasparilla Island Grill

  • Harvest Pumpkin Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – cinnamon sponge cupcake with pumpkin cream filling topped with maple buttercream, a candy pumpkin, and fall leaves
  • Frozen or Hot Pumpkin Latte (available through Nov. 30) – with whipped cream, nutmeg, and caramel sauce
  • Pumpkin Cranberry Muffin (available Nov. 15 – Dec. 31)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Roaring Fork

  • Going Batty Cupcake (available Oct. 30-31) – chocolate cupcake topped with buttercream icing, ganache icing, and a sugar cookie bat
  • Poison Apple Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – apple-flavored cupcake with caramel filling and topped with chocolate ganache

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – Trail’s End To-Go, Chuckwagon

  • Candy Corn Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – vanilla cupcake with candy corn buttercream

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Contempo Café

  • Minnie’s Not-So-Scary Berry Cupcake (available Oct. 28-31) – vanilla cupcake with raspberry jam filling and topped with vanilla buttercream icing and a white chocolate witch hat filled with blackberry marshmallow and garnished with a fondant bow and dark chocolate spider web
  • Apple Cupcake (available through Nov. 3) – apple-flavored cupcake with apple filling and topped with cinnamon buttercream icing and apple compote
  • Pumpkin Cupcake (available Nov. 4 – Dec. 1) – pumpkin cupcake with cream cheese filling and caramel buttercream icing

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – Capt. Cook’s, Kona Coffee Bar

  • Mickey’s Haunted Chocolate Cupcake (available through Nov. 2) – dark chocolate cupcake filled with red velvet cheesecake and topped with buttercream

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts – The Market at Ale & Compass, Beach Club Marketplace

  • Caramel Candy Apple Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – cinnamon-apple cupcake topped with chocolate caramel mousse
  • Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin (available Oct. 20 – Dec. 1) – spiced pumpkin muffin with cream cheese filling
  • Pumpkin Whoopie Pie (available Oct. 20 – Dec. 1) – pumpkin cake with brown butter cream cheese filling
  • Pumpkin Cupcake (available Nov. 1-30) – topped with buttercream

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s BoardWalk – BoardWalk Bakery

  • Candy Corn Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – vanilla cupcake with orange marshmallow filling, whipped cream frosting, chocolate Mickey ears, and orange crispy pearls
  • Pumpkin Swirl Cookie (available Nov. 11-24)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Mill Food Court, Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory

  • Black Forest Mummy Cake (available through Nov. 1) – chocolate cupcake with cherry filling and topped with vanilla buttercream
  • Pumpkin Cheesecake Cupcake (available through Nov. 1) – vanilla cupcake filled with pumpkin cheesecake and topped with cream cheese icing
  • Mickey Pumpkin Spice Beignets (Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory only, available through Nov. 1) – house-made beignets dusted in pumpkin spice powdered sugar

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – The Mara

  • Witch’s Finger Cupcake (available Oct. 26-31) – vanilla cupcake with crispy peanut butter candy filling and topped with a chocolate witch hat

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s All-Star Resorts – Intermission Food Court, End Zone Food Court, and World Premier Food Court

  • Spider Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – vanilla cupcake filled with cookies and cream marshmallow filling and topped with orange cookie buttercream and green marshmallow webs
  • Chocolate Indulgence Cake (available through Nov. 30) – Devil’s Food cake and dark ganache topped with pumpkin made of white chocolate mousse
  • Day of the Dead Cupcake (available through Nov. 1) – chocolate cupcake filled with spiced ganache and topped with spiced ganache buttercream, a sugar skull, and chocolate ears
  • Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake (available through Nov. 30) – vanilla cheesecake topped with pumpkin spice cream and dark ganache

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

DISNEY SPRINGS

It’s the most wonderFALL time of the year! Now through November 7, you can experience autumn with WonderFall Flavors at Disney Spring. You’ll find seasonally-inspired dishes at over 14 restaurants and quick service locations throughout the area (and be sure to pick up an event guide at the Disney Springs Welcome Center or at participating locations). I’ve even put together the ultimate foodie guide to this limited-time experience, and my fellow author, Darcy Clark, has also shared a few ways to “scare up some fun” at Disney Springs in a recent blog post.

In addition to WonderFall Flavors, there are a few other items that have materialized this season!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (all items available through Nov. 7)

  • The Forbidden Apple – spiced rum, sour apple pucker, cinnamon whiskey, cranberry juice, lime juice, and grenadine
  • Poison-Less Apple (Non-Alcoholic) – Sprite with caramel and Granny Smith apple

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Ganachery

  • Minnie Witch Piñata (available through Oct. 31) – chocolate sphere filled with house-made marshmallows and crispy pearls and decorated with chocolate pieces
  • Jack Skellington Piñata (available through Oct. 31) – white chocolate sphere filled with house-made marshmallows and crispy pearls and decorated with chocolate pieces
  • Large and Small Chocolate Skulls (available through Oct. 31)
  • Cranberry Orange Ganache Squares (available through Nov. 8) – flavors of cranberry and orange blended with dark chocolate
    Pumpkin Spice Latte Ganache Squares (available through Nov. 8)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Amorette’s Patisserie

  • Pumpkin Mickey Macaron (available through Oct. 31) – white chocolate ganache flavored with pumpkin purée and pumpkin spices

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Sprinkles

  • Special Cupcakes topped with Halloween Candy (available through Oct. 25)
  • Strawberry Champagne Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – vanilla Champagne cake finished with an infusion of buttercream frosting and sweet ripe strawberries simmered in sparkling rosé
  • Black Velvet Cupcake (available Oct. 26-31) – dark chocolate cupcake topped with whipped chocolate ganache
  • Pumpkin Cupcake (available through Oct. 31) – pumpkin cake laced with ginger, clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon and topped with sweet cinnamon cream cheese frosting
  • Halloween BOO Box (available through Oct. 31) – vanilla milk chocolate, red velvet, black and white, and pumpkin cupcakes adorned with Sprinkles ghosts and BOO sugar decorations

HALLOWEEN CANDY

And of course, it just wouldn’t be the Halloween season without Halloween CANDY! You’ll find these sweet treats at various candy shops across all of our parks and resort hotels such as The Confectionery in Magic Kingdom Park or Goofy’s Candy Co. and Disney’s Candy Cauldron at Disney Springs. From candy apples to cake pops, we’ve got it all!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Various Candy Locations Across Walt Disney World Resort

  • Pumpkin and “Poison” Specialty Apples
  • Mummy and Pumpkin Cake Pops
  • Themed Crispy Treats
  • Fall Cookies and Cupcakes

SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Fall is HERE at Walt Disney World Resort and it tastes GREAT if I do say so myself. For more information on each of these locations, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website! Happy snacking!

Disney Tails, Lovepop and More Opening at Disney Springs This Fall

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With over 100 stores already open at Disney Springs, it’s hard to imagine we have room for any more. But great news for shoppers like me – we do! Soon, three new venues, including Disney Tails and Lovepop, will be added to the property’s eclectic mix of niche boutiques and brand-name anchor locations, just in time for holiday shopping.

Here’s a preview of what’s to come:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney Tails: Opening October 12, 2018 at Marketplace Co-Op, this is THE must-visit destination for pet owners who want to bring a bit of Disney flair home to their four-legged friends. With two existing character collections (Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse) and two new character collections (Haunted Mansion and Star Wars) set to debut when the store opens, you may want to wait to finalize Fido’s Halloween costume until you’ve had a chance to visit – the themed comfort harnesses are just too cute! While most of the items were designed with dogs in mind, there are a few items that are “purr”fect for cats, too! In addition to leashes, collars, and bandanas, you’ll also discover squeaky toys inspired by some of your favorite iconic Disney foods, because really, it’s not fair that only humans should get to indulge in Mickey waffles, Mickey ice cream bars and Mickey pretzels, right?

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Lovepop: Steps away, in the center of Marketplace Co-Op, a new kind of greeting card will be arriving in mid-October. Lovepop is “more than a card” – it’s an intricate 3D paper sculpture designed on cutting-edge software, then hand-assembled with impeccable craftsmanship. I fell in love with the brand during a recent trip to New York City and was overjoyed when I found out they’d be coming to Disney Springs. Each piece is a gorgeous keepsake and with options for nearly every occasion imaginable, you’re bound to find something just right for the ones you love most.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Art of Disney Presents Greg McCullough: Slated to open on November 3, 2018 in the space formerly occupied by Little Miss Matched, an art gallery featuring works by Greg McCullough – a fan-favorite when it comes to paintings of Disney characters and stories – will open for a limited-time engagement through January 1, 2019. Greg McCullough will appear every day, except Mondays, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and guests will have a chance to interact with the artist, have artwork signed, and possibly even catch him painting live. Original works of art, limited-editions, and prints will be available, alongside some unique pieces from his Disney Remnants and Abstract Remnants Collections – mosaic collections created by recycling unused oil pant.

As if all of this wasn’t enough, Basin, one of the most beloved brands at Disney Springs, is putting the finishing touches on a refurbishment of their store. With a mid-October completion date, the location will feel familiar but with lighter, brighter, fresh touches that will open up the space in a more modern way.

With so much newness on the horizon, who’s ready to get a head start on holiday gift purchases and join me on a shopping trip to Disney Springs?

2018 Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Begins November 9

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The 2018 Holidays at the Disneyland Resort begins Nov. 9, transforming the Happiest Place on Earth into the merriest! From tasting tidings to spirited entertainment, here is what we are most excited to experience:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

“A Christmas Fantasy” Parade at Disneyland park: “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade is a Disneyland holiday tradition! Whether it’s Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse offering yuletide greetings, Santa Claus with his prancing reindeer or Disney Princesses dancing at the Candlelight Ball, everyone has a favorite part of this classic parade. As we get ready to welcome back “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, the last day to experience “Pixar Play Parade” will be Nov. 4.

Festive Food Marketplaces at Disney California Adventure park: As part of the Festival of Holidays, the delicious mix of holiday dishes and beverages found at the Festive Food Marketplacescelebrate diverse cuisines, cultures and traditions. Come hungry! To make way for Festival of Holidays, “Paint the Night” parade will conclude its limited run on Nov. 7.

“Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks at Disneyland park: In the evening, spirits will soar during the awe-inspiring “Believe…in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular. This returning favorite culminates with a magical snowfall finale—a truly special wintry treat!

Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party at Disney California Adventure park: As part of the Disney ¡Viva Navidad! holiday celebration, a colorful street party comes to life with musicians, dancers and giant mojiganga puppets. The Three Caballeros—Donald Duck, Panchito and José Carioca—lead a jolly, joyous celebration!

Seasonal Decor at the Disneyland Resort: Where ever you look, the sights, sounds and tastes of holidays will put you right into the spirit! The halls will certainly be decked—from the glistening Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle at Disneyland park to the gussied up sparkle along Route 66 in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park.

Which experiences are you most looking forward to this year during the 2018 Holidays at the Disneyland Resort? Tell us in the comments!

Sebastian’s Bistro Opening October 8 at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Life under the sea is pretty great, so Disney is bringing it to the surface and inviting you to be part of the Caribbean world with Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort! This casual, family-friendly table service restaurant features a menu that blends Latin and Caribbean flavors with market-fresh ingredients served up with warm island hospitality and waterfront views.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With a diverse variety of items that range from seafood and steak to salads, sandwiches, and burgers, the menu balances classic spices with tropical flavors to create bright, fresh tastes. Start off your meal with a tasty appetizer such as the Caribbean Pull-Apart Rolls (served with guava butter, mango chutney, and Jamaican jerk oil), Jamaican Meat Pies with Guajillo chili sauce, or the Arepa with slow-cooked pork and chili-mango barbecue sauce.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Signature entrées include Skirt Steak “Chimichurri” with crispy yuca, Citrus-Stuffed Sustainable Whole Fish with turmeric brown rice and cilantro-lime vinaigrette, and Sautéed Shrimp and Tamales with sautéed peppers and salsa verde. You can also try the Crab Cake-topped Burger with lettuce, tomato, and horseradish mayonnaise or the Crispy Avocado Bacon Burger with chimichurri and pico de gallo.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The menu also includes several vegan options such as the Island Curry “Eggless” Sandwich served on multigrain bread and the Plant-Based Bahn Mi Sandwich with cucumbers, pickled vegetables, and Miso-Sriracha mayonnaise.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

For dessert, tropical fruit flavors elevate these decadent dishes. Mile Marker Zero, inspired by the culture of Key West, features Iced Key Lime Pops with sea salt and tropical sauce. Then there’s the Banoffee Pie with banana custard and chocolate ganache served in a graham cracker tart with caramel sauce as well as the Floating Island Sundae with fresh Caribbean fruit, meringue, guava, and Guanabana sorbet. YUM!

The kid’s menu features unique but familiar fare with entrees like Whole Grain Penne with zucchini and roasted tomato sauce, Jerk Grilled Chicken, Grilled Shrimp Skewer with Cilantro-Lime Cream, and a Jamaican Meat Pie. Sides include items such as sautéed green beans, mac and cheese, pizza biscuits, cauli-fries with carrot ketchup, and more!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Looking for a refreshing drink to pair with your meal? There’s tropical island-inspired beverages for everyone in the family! From refreshing non-alcoholic fruity and frozen mocktails to island-inspired cocktails with Caribbean rums, you won’t have to look far for that perfect pairing. Customize your own rum flight or browse a selection of Caribbean and domestic craft beers, or sit back and relish wines that complement the Latin flavors of the menu.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

When you step into the dining room, you’ll see how Sebastian’s Bistro celebrates the natural beauty of the Caribbean, from coral patterns and kelp filigree to lure-inspired art and nautical designs. All around the restaurant, you’ll enjoy abstract artwork and underwater landscapes, and you might even see a familiar crustacean floating about! Located in the Old Port Royale area, the restaurant blends perfectly with the lush landscapes and vibrant colors that can be found throughout Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, which transports guests to a paradise full of fun and relaxation.

So are you ready to try out this menu for yourself? Then I have good news! Reservations are now available for Sebastian’s Bistro for bookings starting on October 8 and can be made by visiting the Walt Disney World Resort website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (407 939-3463).

Take a Disney Cruise from New Orleans or to Hawaii in 2020

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Take a Disney Cruise from New Orleans or to Hawaii in 2020

In early 2020, Disney Cruise Line will be setting sail from New Orleans for the very first time! Families can sail aboard the Disney Wonder for a tropical getaway combined with incredible Disney entertainment. Six cruises during the limited-time season from New Orleans include four-, six- and seven-night Western Caribbean sailings; a seven-night Bahamian cruise; and a 14-night Panama Canal voyage.

Those of you from the area, get ready to experience the magic of having a Disney ship in your own backyard. And if you’re coming from farther away, take time before or after your Disney cruise to discover the Southern charm that’s made New Orleans famous. You can savor the distinct flavors of New Orleans cuisine, visit family-friendly museums and parks, and revel in the sweet melodies of world-renowned jazz music.

In New Orleans, you’ll find magic around every corner as you recognize the iconic sights and sounds that inspired the beloved animated film “The Princess and the Frog.” Then onboard the Disney Wonder, you’ll be treated to a celebration of New Orleans dining and entertainment at Tiana’s Place restaurant with a menu that draws inspiration from the flavors and ingredients of the Louisiana bayou and live music that sets a French Quarter supper club atmosphere.

And that’s not all! Disney also announced a highly anticipated return to the Hawaiian Islands, along with tropical cruises from Puerto Rico, Florida and California. Read on for more details, and then start planning your Disney cruise vacation for early 2020!

After five years, Disney Cruise Line will make its much-anticipated return to Hawaii. As part of Disney Cruise Line’s early 2020 itineraries, the Disney Wonder will sail to Kiwiliwili on the pristine, mountainous island of Kauai, Hawaii. (David Murphey, photographer)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Long-Awaited Return to Hawaii
After a five-year hiatus, the Disney Wonder will return to Hawaii in early 2020 for two special cruises: a nine-night voyage to Honolulu from Vancouver, Canada, on April 29, and a 10-night sailing back to Vancouver on May 8. You can discover the breathtaking beauty of the Hawaiian Islands, including the famous beaches of Waikiki on Oahu; the views from high atop the summit of Haleakala on Maui; the lush tropical gardens and waterfalls of Kauai; and the diverse natural wonders of Hawaii Island.

From San Juan, Puerto Rico in early 2019, the Disney Wonder sets sail on three special cruises to the Southern Caribbean, visiting tropical destinations renowned for beautiful sun-kissed beaches and warm azure waters. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Popular Itineraries from Puerto Rico and California
The Disney Wonder continues its standout season with returns to popular home ports on both coasts. First, the ship sets sail for the Southern Caribbean during two seven-night voyages departing Jan. 19 and 26 from San Juan, Puerto Rico, followed by a five-night Bahamian cruise. Then beginning on March 20, the ship embarks on seven sailings to Baja and the Mexican Riviera, ranging in length from two to seven nights, from San Diego, California.

In early 2020, the Disney Fantasy will continue sailing guest-favorite itineraries to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida, including sailings that stop at the beautiful and vibrant island of Tortola. (Kent Phillips, photographer)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Unforgettable Tropical Getaways from Florida
In early 2020, Disney Cruise Line will have three ships sailing to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida, and every cruise includes a day of fun in the sun on Disney’s private Bahamian island reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests, Castaway Cay.

  • From Miami, the Disney Magic will sail three-, four- and five-night Bahamian cruises and five-night Western Caribbean cruises.
  • From Port Canaveral, near Orlando, the Disney Fantasy will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, plus two special sailings at six- and eight-nights each. The Disney Dream will sail three- and four-night Bahamian cruises.

With a variety of options from Florida, you can choose the vacation that provides something for everyone in your family, combining the adventure and relaxation of tropical destinations, the ease and indulgence of an ocean cruise, and the world-class entertainment and service of a Disney vacation.

Bookings open to the public on Oct. 4, 2018. More details on 2020 itineraries can be found on the Ports and Itineraries for 2020 page of disneycruise.com.

Centertown Market and Banana Cabana to Open Late Fall 2018 at Caribbean Beach

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney has recently shared some exciting (and tasty) new details about the expansion of Centertown Market as well as a festive, pool-side bar called Banana Cabana at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort!

First up is Centertown Market – this quick-service restaurant has been expanded and reimagined as an indoor street market. The new and inviting space includes open shutters, wooden light posts, awnings, and most importantly, delicious new eats. The new menu at Centertown Market will include a combination of family-friendly fast casual offerings mixed with customizable Latin and Caribbean-inspired dishes. One of the highlights of the menu is the new Island Bowl available for breakfast and dinner.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

These bowls can be customized with your choice of base, protein, sauce, and if you’re ordering a breakfast bowl, you can even choose what kind of egg you want on top (scrambled, poached, or tofu scramble). Bases include red beans and rice (offered all day), home fries (for breakfast), and greens (for dinner). For proteins, choose between rotisserie beef, bacon, chorizo, or plant-based sausage for breakfast and rotisserie beef, pork shoulder, banana leaf-wrapped fish, jerk chicken thighs, or vegan chipotle seitan for dinner! Breakfast sauce options include salsa verde or pico de gallo, while the dinner sauces include chimichurri, garlic ranch, or spicy pink sauce. With all of these options, there are over 30 different combinations to choose from for both breakfast and dinner!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

On the breakfast menu are classic dishes like Eggs Benedict or the All American Breakfast Platter with eggs, home fries, sausage, bacon, and toast as well as island-inspired creations like Coconut Waffles with fresh fruit or the Banana Pancakes topped with granola and pineapple chunks and served with sausage and maple syrup.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Fresh salads, Sicilian-style pizza, pasta dishes, and a variety of sandwiches and burgers round out the dinner menu to provide a little something for everyone in the family!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re craving something sweet, try the Tropical Tart with key lime, mango, and passion fruit curd with Chantilly or the Chocolate Crème Tart with chocolate cake, coffee Chantilly, and caramel crispies.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There’s also a wonderful array of options for kids! They’ll enjoy some familiar favorites like Pirate Mickey Waffles and French Toast for breakfast and Chicken Breast Nuggets, Tacos, and Grilled Cheese for dinner. For the adventurous little sailors, our chefs created some unique new offerings like the Egg Popper for breakfast (a hard-boiled egg pop with green pirate juice, roasted pineapple, and bacon) and the Beef and Mushroom-blended Cheeseburger for dinner (with “cauli” fries, orange sauce, and a mini “build-your-own” Island Bowl).

The expansive beverage island will offer fountain beverages featuring Coca-Cola® Freestyle, freshly-brewed coffee, and a variety of teas as well as draft beer and single-serve wine and cocktails. Or you can step inside the Grab ‘n Go Market, where you’ll find delightful specialty coffees and quick bites to-go.

Now – let’s talk about the Banana Cabana! This pool-side bar will feature an outdoor lounge where your family can gather for some yummy food and refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The lounge is inspired by the festive culture found in the Caribbean, mixing a relaxed sitting area with a lively bar. Cabana-style drapes flank the seating groups and re-purposed steel drums will illuminate a central communal table made from a wooden boat.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

It’s always “island time” at Banana Cabana, and what better way to immerse yourself in those tropical vibes than with exclusive cocktails made with premium spirits and Caribbean seafood and mainland dishes. Delightfully-flavored libations include the Pink Guava Colada featuring rum, guava puree, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut and the Kraken Punch with spiced rum, blood orange sour, and pomegranate and orange juices. Caribbean beers will also be available for islanders along with a variety of craft and traditional beers and premium white and red wines on tap.

For non-alcoholic options, adventures await you with drinks made with fruit juices and tropical flavors. One of these drinks is the Tropical Paradise, a fruity blend of pineapple coconut, cinnamon, and lime dusted with nutmeg.

Centertown Market and Banana Cabana are set to open in late Fall of 2018 and are part of the greater reimagining of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

Five Ways to Enjoy Halloween Time at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Five Ways to Enjoy Halloween Time at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Spooky fun and full of delight, the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort have terrifyingly tasty treats, amazing displays and ghostly entertainment, all sure-fire ways to extend the Halloween Time experience, before, during or after a great day at the parks.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Enjoy the Spook-tacular Seasonal Decor: In the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a “spook-tacular” edible display of Halloween pumpkins. These pumpkins take a ghoulish form with Oogie Boogie, and are built from cereal treats, icing, chocolate, and fondant. Our talented pastry chefs used over 200 pounds of icing, 100 pounds of chocolate, and 300 pounds of fondant to create these incredible pumpkins. See if you can find the 13 Hidden Mickeys throughout the display!

Also during Halloween Time, experience ghoulish décor surrounding the Disneyland Hotel and discover the swashbuckler in you at the pirate-themed Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. The pirates have hoisted the Jolly Roger flag in the lobby, calling all buccaneers for fun at “Pirates Pier”!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Exclusive Trick-or-Treating for Hotel Guests: On select afternoons from October 2 through October 31, overnight guests of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are invited to drop in for a howling good time and exclusive, complimentary trick-or-treat festivities. Together, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, the Disneyland Hotel, and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel will have a treat map of locations, so little ghosts and goblins (and their parents) can visit all three hotels. The hotels are offering activities such as coloring pages, bat mask decorating and create-your-own pirate hat. Cookie decorating kits are also available for a fee. Hotel guests are encouraged to sign up at the Guest Services desk.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Surprise Your Family With an In-Room Pumpkin Bucket: Plan a Halloween-themed surprise with goodies delivered right to your Disneyland Resort hotel room. These Halloween Treats Pumpkin Buckets can be specially arranged with the magic-makers from Disney Floral & Gifts for your favorite ghost or goblin. The amenity delivery starts with a light-up Mickey pumpkin bucket filled with ghostly treats with a one-of-a-kind Halloween-themed keepsake with a Mickey Mouse pumpkin light-up lanyard. For more details, please call 714-781-4438 or visit www.DisneyFloralandGifts.com.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Taste (and Photograph!) Yummy Halloween Treats: At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, you’ll find a holiday cart in the lobby serving up some scary and sweet Mickey-shaped cookies featuring iconic Halloween-inspired decorations. This cart is also serving up Halloween whoopie pies, jumbo cake pops, pretzel rods, a cookie box with Witch Finger cookies, and pumpkin pound cake. At The Coffee House at the Disneyland Hotel, you can find a chocolate Bat Cookie. Across all three hotels, the Red Poison Apple Glow Cube can be found at restaurant or quick service locations. The flavors of fall have arrived as well, with Pumpkin Spice Lattes at Surfside Lounge at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and Pumpkin Muffins at The Coffee House at the Disneyland Hotel.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Check out Eerie Musical Entertainment: Ghostly a capella performers, the Skeletones and the Cryptix, stroll and perform throughout the hotels of the Disneyland Resort, as well the Scareolers in Downtown Disney. Enjoy harmonizing tunes such as “I Put a Spell on You” and “Grim Grinning Ghosts.”

Top 5 Tips for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom

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From the Disney Parks Blog:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Fall arrived early at Magic Kingdom Park this year so it’s time for one of my favorite events of the year, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Magic Kingdom Park is transformed with glowing jack o lanterns, family-friendly frights and grinning ghosts. But when you combine unlimited candy, lively parades, dazzling fireworks, and characters galore it could be a bit overwhelming for preschoolers. My advice for a spooktacular, stress-free night is to plan, pace and embrace the wicked festivities. Here are a few tips for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party:

1. Get a game plan. What are the must dos? Is the goal to score candy, watch Mickey’s “Boo-To-You” Parade, ride the attractions, or all of the above? Be aware of times for fireworks, shows, character meet and greets and the parade. Arrive early to get prime viewing for the earlier parade. (To avoid any meltdowns, prep your little one about the haunting headless horseman who leads the parade down Main Street, U.S.A., or just skip that part.)

2. Check the weather. If temperatures are soaring, be prepared to shift gears from that fancy princess gown and heels, to a lightweight costume or Halloween-themed t-shirt paired with a themed light-up necklace instead. The kids may put up a fight, but in the end, they will be comfy and happy!

3. Get a head start. Although 7 p.m. is the official start time for the party, you can actually arrive as early as 4 p.m. with your special event ticket. Venture to favorite attractions, indulge in a yummy candy corn milkshake or ice cream cone, and be among the first inside the party to partake in Halloween fun.

4. Dance the night away. The new Storybook Circus Junior Jam dance party features Disney Junior stars like Vampirina and Doc McStuffins. Kids will love to rock out with their pals and burn off some energy!

5. Indulge in the treats. With more than a dozen trick or treat locations scattered throughout the park it’s tough to monitor the sugar intake. Note that there are healthy treats to behold as well as a dedicated allergy-friendly stop, just in case. (But if you are looking to score a big haul of candy bring your own sack or bucket.)

Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween party in advance, as space each night is limited. (There is a savings of $10 per ticket when you purchase in advance for most nights!) For more information, visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/events-tours/magic-kingdom/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party/ or call (407) WDISNEY (934-7639).